Luke Needs a Liver!

Hi, my name is Ashlee and my 1 year son Luke is in need of a liver transplant.

Luke was diagnosed at 2 months old with a rare genetic disorder, Alagille Syndrome. Alagille Syndrome can affect multiple organ systems in the body and can have varying degrees of severity for each person. In Luke's case his heart and liver are affected, with his liver being the biggest concern at this time. His bile ducts are narrowed or reduced in numbers causing bile to build up and damage his liver. Liver damage has caused its own set of problems, like jaundice, poor growth, vitamin deficiency, enlarged liver and spleen, along with fluid in the abdomen and the dreaded itchy skin. He has been on multiple medications since he was diagnosed and has had a feeding tube since June to help him, however he has reached the point where that is not enough and he needs a new liver.

Luke needs a liver from either a deceased or living donor. His transplant teams is encouraging us to find a living donor with blood type O+/O-, in the age range of 18-45, and in good health to donate at Toronto General Hospital. A healthy person can donate a piece of their liver to help save Luke's life.

Luke is tiny but mighty and has taken everything thrown at him like a champ. He is the boy of many faces and you will definitely know when he is not impressed but his big blue eyes and smile can light up the room. He loves listening to music with dad, snuggling with mom and thinks his brother and sister are the coolest. He is a big fan of George Michael's Careless Whisper and loves playing with the mouse and keyboard just like his big brother.

This Go FundMe is to help us with medical bills and unforeseen expenses that may arise. Luke's condition requires multiple Drs. visits and testing each month making it tough for me to go back to work, putting us down to a one income family of five. At this time we are doing appointments mostly in London but as things progress there will be more frequent trips to Sick Kids in Toronto. Once we get the amazing news that a liver has been found we will be spending 1-2 months in Toronto with dad commuting back and fourth regularly, adding to the expenses.

From the bottom of our hearts we ask for your help. Even the smallest donation or just helping us spread the word to find him a liver will be greatly appreciated.

If you would like to know more about living donations please check out the following website https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/pages/living_liver_donor.aspx

Thank you

Ashlee